Jain Tirthankaro Ke Lanchan

This Jain text, "Jain Tirthankaro ke Lanchan" by Munishri Rishabhachandravijayji 'Vidyarthi', delves into the concept of "Lanchan" (also referred to as "Lanchhan" or "Chinha") as distinctive marks or symbols associated with the Tirthankaras, the spiritual conquerors in Jainism.

Key Concepts and Themes:

• Meaning of Lanchan: The text explains that "Lanchan" is a Sanskrit word meaning a special sign or mark used for identification. In Prakrit and Apabhramsa, it is known as "Lanchhan." Historically, these marks were used to identify individuals, similar to how fingerprints or photographs are used today.
• Distinguishing Marks: The author emphasizes that every individual possesses unique physical characteristics. These "lanchan-chihna" (marks) are helpful in identifying a person. Some marks are considered good, while others are bad.
• "Bhattis Lakshana Purush" (Man of Thirty-Two Marks): The text introduces the concept of a "Bhattis Lakshana Purush," a man possessing thirty-two auspicious marks. Such an individual is considered fortunate and auspicious. The text details these thirty-two marks based on the ancient Indian science of physiognomy (Samudrik-Shastra), categorizing them into seven red, six elevated, five subtle, five long, three expansive, three light, and three deep marks.
• Tirthankaras and Auspicious Marks: The Tirthankaras are described as possessing the highest number of auspicious marks, with estimations reaching up to 1008. These marks are acquired through virtuous deeds (Shubhkarma). The text differentiates between internal (natural disposition) and external marks, and further categorizes external marks into inherent (angabhoot) and external (angabahya) marks.
• The Thirty-Two "Mangala Akrutis" (Auspicious Forms): The text also lists thirty-two auspicious forms or symbols, believed to be found on the right side of a Tirthankara's body. These include symbols like the umbrella, lotus, bow, vajra, conch, discus, elephant, and peacock.
• Specific Tirthankara Marks: The core of the text focuses on the specific "lanchan" of each of the 24 Tirthankaras of the current era (Avsarpini). For example, the first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev, is identified by the bull, Ajitnath by the elephant, Parshvanath by the serpent, and Mahavir by the lion.
• Mothers' Dreams: The text highlights the belief that mothers of Tirthankaras often have significant dreams before their birth, which are often related to the Tirthankara's specific mark. For instance, the mother of Padmaprabhu saw a lotus, and the mother of Chandraprabhu saw the moon. The story of Parshvanath's mother seeing a serpent in the dark is also narrated.
• Variations in Tradition: The author notes that there can be slight variations in the "lanchan" of Tirthankaras between the Digambara and Shvetambara traditions. Examples are given for Sumatinath, Shitalnath, and Naminath.
• Common Marks: It is clarified that not all Tirthankaras have entirely unique marks. Some Tirthankaras, especially among the 20 Tirthankaras currently living in Mahavideh Kshetra, share common marks like the bull, elephant, sun, moon, and lotus.
• Eternal Tirthankaras and Marks: The text mentions four Tirthankaras (Rishabh, Chandranan, Vardhaman, and Varisen) who are considered eternal, meaning as soon as one attains liberation, another Tirthankara takes their place. Their marks are also believed to be eternal, though minor variations in their eternal representations might exist.
• Significance of Lanchan: Ultimately, the "lanchan" is not merely a physical mark but is deeply connected to the Tirthankara's life, nature, and teachings. The auspicious qualities associated with these symbols are believed to be manifested in the Tirthankara's life.

In essence, "Jain Tirthankaro ke Lanchan" provides a detailed exploration of the symbolic marks of the Tirthankaras in Jainism, tracing their origins, significance, and variations across traditions, and linking them to the spiritual eminence and characteristics of these revered figures.